A poet's quest

L..C. Smith No. 8 (elite type)

This one was in good shape when I bought it, though I wondered why it didn’t have the L.C. Smith name on the back metal paper plate. It also didn’t have the model number in front. Closer inspection revealed that it had been painted over (quite well, I admit), though I could still read “L.C. Smith & Bros.” in the metal plate and “No.8” in front, which retained the “L.C. Smith & Bros. Typewriter” script under the type bars.

Hell of a machine, and even more exciting because of the elite pitch, which is the first I have seen on an L.C. Smith of this period. This one, according to my research, dates to the ’20s, and is my second-oldest No. 8. It types beautifully, and the elite typeface looks great on linen paper. It seems that it’s smaller than regular elite. Is there such a thing as 13- or 14-pitch? Regardless, it’s an exceptional machine that will stay in my lineup for some time.

About me

I am an author, artist and journalist living in San Diego. I love typewriters, fountain pens, bamboo fly rods and first editions. My first poetry collection, Postcards from the Tattooed Man’s Chest, is available for sale here in limited quantities. My latest collection, The Elastic Dome, is available on Amazon.

About me

I am an author, artist and journalist living in San Diego. I love typewriters, fountain pens, bamboo fly rods and first editions. My first poetry collection, Postcards from the Tattooed Man’s Chest, is available for sale here in limited quantities. My latest collection, The Elastic Dome, is available on Amazon.